The recent 2016 Share the Trails Workshop was presented by Horse Council BC and the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC, together with the Shuswap Trail Alliance and sponsored by Backroad Map Books. The Share the Trails initiative endeavours to foster positive and effective alliances between diverse trail user groups in the areas of access, safety, maintenance and education.

Held May 6 and 7 in Salmon Arm, the Workshop offered education on cooperating with First Nations; conflict resolution and clear communication; improving marketing communications; examples of successful collaborations by user groups; volunteerism; raising awareness; and the role of government. Thirty-one participants, representing a wide variety of user groups from around BC, learned more about what can be accomplished with leadership, inclusion, planning and organization.

The May 6 agenda included presentations from a variety of knowledgeable stakeholders:

  • Rob Cairns Consulting
  • Chilliwack Recreation Advisory Group
  • Tabor Mountain Recreation Society
  • Shuswap Trail Alliance
  • International Mountain Bicycling Association Canada
  • Ministry of Forest, Land & Natural Resource Operations

After interactive questions and comments to the presenting panel, a small-group round table session rounded out the day. May 7 offered an outdoor program, hosted by Shuswap Trails Alliance leadership.

Breaking new trails and maintaining equestrian rights on existing trails depends on good relationships – with fellow users, with decision makers, with all who may be impacted by horses on the trail. Learn more about how you can foster good relationships and maintain your right to ride.